The higher the yield, the higher the risk. A high yield is designed to attract investors. An outrageously high yield attracts fools.

When a corporation goes into the marketplace to buy back its own stock, it means management thinks the stock is undervalued. This is a smart time to buy.

Never call your broker on Monday. Out of courtesy and common sense, wait until Tuesday. A good broker is focused on the opening of the market - at home and around the world - and on getting back into a business frame of mind after the weekend.

Always leave a sinking ship. There's no virtue in hanging on to losers. And stocks don't have feelings.

If you're uncomfortable with your financial advisor, it's probably with good reason.

Invest in vanity. Buy stocks in high-profile companies whose products are designed to make you feel good and look good.

Sell before the holidays. Stock prices tend to rise on the last trading day before major holidays.